What? Man refused to work during leaves, manager puts him on PIP

At a time when discussions on work-life balance is a hot topic, a post by an employee who refused to work during his leaves has gone viral on the internet. Why? Well, the employee claims that his manager forced him to work on his day-offs and when he didn't comply, he was put on Performance Improvement Plan (PIP)!

The viral social media post has reignited the conversation around toxic workplaces— and it’s struck a chord with many people. The post, which was originally shared on Reddit , details one man's troubling experience at a new company where he says he was unfairly placed on a PIP just five months into the job for not being available to work during his approved leaves.

According to the post, the employee claimed his manager expected him to be constantly available— even during his paid time off which included weekends and leaves. When he refused saying he will be travelling, things quickly went downhill. The manager, reportedly dismissive of his refusal, responded with a snide remark: “I’d like to see that.”

Soon after returning from his leaves, the employee noticed his manager’s attitude had turned cold towards him. Later that day, the HR called with a shocking news that he had been put on a PIP due to “poor performance.”

In the same Reddit post, the employee also shared more about the company’s culture. The organisation follows a six-day work week, with his manager expecting employees to also put in 5–6 hours of work even on Sundays, the man claimed. “We’re constantly chasing unrealistic deadlines,” he added.

He further questioned, “Is this even legal? Can companies really do this? Don’t employees have any protection from such toxic treatment?”

His post quickly picked up traction online, and many netizens expressed their disbelief, calling the treatment “unfair” and “disgraceful.” One user said, “Document everything—your performance reviews, goals, and feedback. And start looking for a better job ASAP.” While another said, “This is why people move abroad. At least managers there don’t question your right to take time off.”

What are your views on this particular incident? Do you think the employee was right to neglect work when his peers were complying or was the manager being too harsh on him? Tell us about it in the comments section below.